BBC Four airs a new episode of This Cultural Life tonight at 9pm, with cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason joining John Wilson for a half-hour interview tracing the key influences behind his rise.
The episode revisits Kanneh-Mason’s early years in Nottingham, growing up in a household of seven musically trained siblings. He recalls his grandfather’s love of chamber music, the impact of winning BBC Young Musician in 2016, and the moment his career accelerated following his performance at the 2018 royal wedding.
He also reflects on the artists who shaped his playing, including Jacqueline du Pré and Mstislav Rostropovich, and explains why Bob Marley remains a constant source of musical energy.
His fifth album is out now, and his Proms appearances continue into 2025.
This Cultural Life airs Sunday 22 June at 9pm on BBC Four.
